From: <mKangsen@cambridgema.gov> on behalf of Muna Kangsen <mKangsen@cambridgema.gov>
Date: Friday, December 11, 2020 at 9:39 AM
To: <info@portersquare.net>
Subject: Takeout Technology Service Expanded to Branch Locations

Media Contact:

Muna Kangsen, Manager of Communications, Programs and Events

617-461-3708 mkangsen@cambridgema.gov

For Immediate Release

Takeout Technology Service Expanded to Branch Locations

Cambridge, MA, December 11, 2020 --- On Monday, December 14, the Cambridge Public Library will begin the next phase of its free Takeout Technology program, allowing patrons to check out joint Chromebook/mobile WIFI hotspot bundles for home use.  The new bundles contain both a Chromebook laptop computer and a mobile hotspot for internet access in the same package. Takeout Technology service will also expand to Central Square, O’Neill and Valente branch locations in addition to the Main Library.

The Library launched its Takeout Technology program in early August to extend patron access to technology resources during the Covid-19 public health crisis. Since the program was launched, the library has expanded its offerings from Chromebook laptops to mobile WIFI hotspots. The latest phase will allow patrons to check out a Chromebook laptop and a mobile WIFI hotspot as a single item.

"The Covid-19 public health crisis has highlighted the extent to which access to technology can impede access to library resources and services for under-served communities.” observed Dr. Maria McCauley, Director of Libraries. “By expanding Takeout Tech service to branch locations and increasing technology devices available for loan, we are deploying resources to address this challenge.”

“We hope by bundling these two devices into a kit that can be checked out as a single item, patrons who need both will have an easier time getting them, rather than needing to request each device separately,” said Reinhard Engels, the Library’s Manager of Innovation and Technology.

Chromebook/mobile WIFI hotspot bundles will be available at the Main Library and the O’Neill and Valente branches starting on Monday, December 14. Bundles will also be available at Central Square when it reopens in late December.  The Library plans to further extend the Takeout Technology service to all remaining branches in 2021.

For detailed instructions on how to reserve and pickup these devices, please visit the Takeout Technology Service webpage. Takeout Technology is made possible by the generous support of Google Cambridge.

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About the Cambridge Public Library:

At the Cambridge Public Library, we welcome all, inspire minds and empower community. We support a Cambridge where everyone has equitable opportunities to learn, people live their best lives, and democracy thrives. During the Covid-19 health crisis we are offering a variety of programs and services. Please visit our website to learn more. 

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